Leader of the South African opposition party the Democratic Alliance (DA), Mmusi Maimane, plans to link up with Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare next week.

Maimane, who has previously expressed his dissatisfaction with the manner in which Zimbabwe has been handled by the South African government, has decided to take matters into his own hands.

The jury is still out on whether Mnangagwa will acquiesce to Maimane’s request. The Zimbabwean President is not the only public figure that Maimane has reached out to.

“I have requested formal meetings with President Mnangagwa, civil society bodies, and political parties in Harare next week,” said Maimane on Thursday.

Speaking at the Zimbabwean Embassy on Thursday, Maimane said: “We are here to begin the process of ensuring peace and stability is restored in our neighbouring Zimbabwe, and to see her people safe from violence and intimidation.”

Maimane has blamed President Mnangagwa for the civil unrest which has broken out in Zimbabwe – and the resultant deaths that came with that.

“Following weeks of relentless political instability and violence with no end in sight, we are compelled to act on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe and the SADC region,” added Mamaine.

The South African government has always been reluctant to intervene in the internal politics of neighbouring countries – the prevailing policy is that of quiet diplomacy.

“The situation is Zimbabwe is dire. Widespread civilian suppression, military-led violence, and bloodshed has ensued – with 100s arrested and detained by government authorities,” said Maimane.

“Assault, torture, inhumane and degrading treatment of citizens continues while President Ramaphosa sits on his hands and refuses to take action.”